Gemini DJ Decks & Turntables

A DJ's Guide to Buying Gemini Turntables

Many professionals enjoy using Gemini turntables to perform with, thanks to their reputation for reliability and ease of use. An American manufacturing firm, Gemini has been making professional DJ equipment including mixers, microphones, and amplifiers – as well as turntables – since it was founded in 1974. Now a part of GCI Technologies, Gemini decks and vinyl turntables are frequently available on eBay.

As well as the current range of Gemini direct drive turntables and MP3 players, you can purchase some used and often discontinued Gemini products on eBay. Bear in mind that some second-hand units may not be functioning and are only sold for parts, so you should check before proceeding if you want a fully operational unit. Some of the main Gemini products that come up include:

• Gemini PT 2000: Much-loved professional vinyl turntable.
• Gemini CDJ 250: Combined CD and MP3 player.
• Gemini XL 200: Discontinued turntable with a strobe speed controller.
• Gemini XL 500: Direct drive vinyl DJ deck.

Although Gemini DJ turntables will vary depending on the precise model you are looking at, certain features are frequently found. These include things such as adjustable tone arms, which come both bent and straight. Many have quartz locking mechanisms that help to maintain a reliable speed, which helps to mix accurately. You will also often find pitch slider controls, although the pitch range that they offer will vary up to +/- 10%, depending on the model.

Some people will have individual Gemini turntables available, but it only makes sense to buy a sole unit if you are replacing a current turntable or want to strip it for spare parts. If you are buying DJ decks to actually perform with, then you will need a pair – plus a mixing console – to be able to proceed properly.

The direct drive mechanism that most Gemini DJ turntables come with is what attracts many performance DJs. When it comes to their professional media and CD players, Gemini products often have great DJing features, such as automated BPM synchronisation, built-in hi-pass filters, and MIDI connectivity.